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Around two-thirds of companion animal vets cited breeding and hereditary defects as a major issue.

Owners urged to talk to their vet about health schemes

Vets are being encouraged to speak to clients about responsible dog breeding and buying as new figures show a huge rise in concern for conformational deformities and pedigree breeding.

According to BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey, which polled almost 700 vets across the UK, more than half (52.5%) of all the vets cited breeding and hereditary defects as the most pressing animal health and welfare issue - more than double the proportion expressing concern just two years ago.

The survey also revealed particular concern for vets working in companion animal practice, with around two-thirds (66%) citing breeding and hereditary defects as a major issue.

British Veterinary Association President Gudrun Ravetz said: “With breeding and hereditary defects emerging as the number one animal health and welfare concern for vets, it is more important than ever to screen before breeding dogs. Vets in practice regularly see cases of inherited conditions such as hip dysplasia and eye problems that are debilitating and distressing for dogs.

“The good news is that we have schemes and tests in place that help breeders and owners make sound judgements about responsible breeding. The BVA/KC Canine Health Schemes and Kennel Club DNA testing services are critical tools for breeders. Anyone thinking of breeding from their dog or thinking about buying a puppy should ask their vet about available health schemes and how they can be used to inform their decisions.”

This Puppy Awareness Week (4-10 September), BVA is teaming up with the Animal Welfare Foundation to promote the use of the Puppy Contract, which contains a section for the breeder to fill out about any health screening or DNA results to offer reassurance to owners.

The BVA has also produced a four-minute film on responsible dog breeding and buying that can be placed in practice waiting rooms or on social media channels which also explains the process and benefits of the Canine Health Schemes.

Natural England has announced a new scheme to improve flood protection, boost wildlife and create 160 hectares of new saltmarsh. The £6 million scheme in Lancashire will effectively unite the RSPB’s Hesketh Out Marsh Reserve and Natural England’s Ribble Estuary National Nature Reserve. The completed reserve will be the largest site of its kind in the north of England.

Students and ethics experts will host an event on the difficult moral challenges facing vets. Ethical issues, such as euthanasia and breeding animals for certain physical traits, will be discussed by prominent speakers including TV vet Emma Milne and RSPCA chief vet James Yeates. Other topics will include how to tackle suspected animal abuse and the extent of surgical intervention.

The conference will look at how these dilemmas affect the wellbeing of vets, and explore how to better prepare veterinary students for work. It will be held at the University of Edinburgh’s Easter Bush Campus from 30 September - 1 October 2017. Tickets can be purchased here.